**Call of Duty’s Downturn and Thrilling Game Launches: Morning Update**

The gaming community is abuzz with reports as experts point out a discouraging pattern for the legendary franchise, Call of Duty. Chris Dring from The Game Business reports that engagement levels with this year’s release, *Black Ops 7*, have noticeably decreased compared to prior years. Although Activision hasn’t disclosed specific sales data, early projections indicate a decline in active players. Dring notes that, while the franchise saw a resurgence in January after the well-received *Black Ops 6*, the overall direction for 2023 is unsettling. Issues such as the lack of innovation and a limiting campaign mode have been identified as factors contributing to this downturn.

On a brighter note, today signifies a key moment in the gaming sector with the debut of multiple eagerly awaited titles. Players can anticipate the launch of *Metroid Prime 4*, *Octopath Traveler 0*, and *Routine*, all releasing at the same time. Additionally, enthusiasts of *Elden Ring* can dive into the first DLC titled *Nightreign*, and engage with a new *Destiny 2 Star Wars* storyline called *Renegades*.

In the area of fan initiatives, the ambitious project *Skyblivion*, which intends to revitalize *The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion* using the *Skyrim* engine, has revealed yet another delay. This news isn’t unexpected, as the undertaking is the product of the dedicated efforts of over 70 volunteers, and its release date has now been extended past the initially expected 2025 timeframe.

Moreover, Sony has forged a partnership with JJ Abrams’ Bad Robot Games. The studio is working on a new cooperative shooter led by Mike Booth, noted for his contributions to *Left 4 Dead*. Information about the game remains limited, but it is confirmed to launch on PS5 and PC.

In technology news, Micron Technology is shifting its business strategy away from consumer goods to meet the rising demands of AI computing, a decision that may worsen the existing RAM shortages impacting gaming hardware prices. This situation is particularly crucial, as AMD is set to be the technology partner for the upcoming generation of consoles.

Finally, acclaimed game designer Hideo Kojima will provide his perspective on independence in game development during a keynote speech at GDC 2026. His presentation, entitled “Restarting from Zero: A Message to Creators Considering Independence,” will delve into the process of founding his studio after parting ways with Konami.

As gaming fans eagerly flock to explore new releases, the industry continues to be vibrant with both obstacles and thrilling advancements on the horizon.